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Boxwood Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boxwood

[ˈbɒkswʊd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

plant type

Boxwood refers to a type of shrub or small tree that belongs to the genus Buxus. It is commonly used in gardens and landscapes for hedges and topiary. Boxwood is prized for its dense foliage and ability to tolerate pruning, which makes it a popular choice for formal gardens.

Synonyms

buxus, evergreen shrub.

Examples of usage

  • The garden was beautifully framed with boxwood hedges.
  • He shaped the boxwood into an elegant swan.
  • Many landscapers prefer boxwood for its versatility.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Rome, boxwood was often used in architecture and sculpture for its fine grain, making it perfect for intricate designs.
  • It has been traditionally planted in formal gardens, symbolizing order and permanence in landscape design.
  • In the 18th century, it was popular among craftsmen for creating small, detailed objects like musical instruments and toys.

Gardening

  • Boxwood is widely used in landscaping for hedges due to its ability to be easily shaped and manicured.
  • It is hardy and can thrive in various climates, making it a popular choice in gardens around the world.
  • Boxwood is often pruned in the spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

Uses in Art and Industry

  • The wood from boxwood is dense and smooth, making it ideal for carving, and was historically used for making rulers and other precision instruments.
  • Artists appreciate boxwood for its detailed grain, which is ideal for miniature sculptures and fine woodworking.
  • Due to its resistance to moisture, it is occasionally used for making musical instrument parts.

Health and Environment

  • Boxwood can provide habitat for various birds and small animals, enhancing biodiversity in gardens.
  • While boxwood is resilient, it can also be susceptible to pests like the boxwood blight, prompting concerns for gardeners.
  • In traditional medicine, some cultures have utilized extracts from boxwood for their potential health benefits.

Origin of 'boxwood'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'boxwood' comes from the Old English word 'box', which referred to the plant's wooden box-like shape.
  • In Latin, the plant is called 'Buxus', which also means box, highlighting its historical use for making boxes.
  • The term 'wood' refers to the dense, hard nature of the plant, which has been valued in carpentry.

The word 'boxwood' has its origins in the Middle English word 'box', which is derived from the Old French 'buxus' and the Latin 'buxus', dating back to ancient Greek 'pyxos'. The term 'wood' refers to the nature of the plant, indicating it is a woody shrub. Boxwoods have been cultivated since antiquity, particularly in the Mediterranean region, and have a long history in horticulture for their durability and shapeability. Boxwood wood itself is dense and fine-grained, making it valuable for small woodcraft items and fine furniture. Over centuries, various species of boxwood have been used for ornamental purposes, leading to its widespread popularity in garden designs.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,996 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.